The Market Place Theatre Season Brochure June - August 2024

FAIRcraft ARMAGH

Sat 25 May | 10.30am - 4.30pm

Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre

FEATURING: CRAFT STALLS, DEMONSTRATIONS & WORKSHOPS

A celebration of contemporary and traditional craft on display, craft demonstrations and handson experiences. Exhibitions, stalls, children’s arts and craft experiences, music and entertainment.

Enjoy a wonderful day out for all the family at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre. Experience high quality craft stalls, traditional and contemporary craft demonstrations and hands-on craft experiences for children and adults. Don’t forget the FREE drop-in craft and art experiences for kids available all day. Enjoy a wide range of refreshments and musical entertainment throughout the day.

DON’T MISS OUR UNIQUE SELECTION OF CREATIVE WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER SEASON!

BELFAST MA PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

THE BELFAST MA: MOTHER OF THE GROOM

Fri 31 May | 8.00pm | £20.00

The Belfast Ma is back with her brand-new show ‘Mother of the Groom’. Enjoy the antics of everyone’s favourite Ma, Sadie Devine, as she prepares for the wedding of the year. Her favourite wee son Thomas is getting married to childhood sweetheart Kirsty, and Sadie is determined to give them the best big day ever. She is all over everything: the cars, the flowers, the dress, the cake, the table plan, and, of course, the hen do.

This is one wedding not to be missed, so grab your invitation, stick on your favourite hat, and celebrate the event of the year. Sure, it’s gonna be a geg!

This production contains some strong language and is recommended for age 15+

PRESTIGE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS H

Wed 5 June | 8.00pm | £27.50

Direct from the West End and having sold out venues worldwide, Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of the Dubliners returns to The Market Place in 2024.

In association with legendary Irish pub O’Donoghue’s, Seven Drunken Nights tells the story of a career spanning 50 years and invokes the spirit of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, John Sheahan, Ciarán Bourke and Jim McCann. This hugely talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of this iconic group back to life.

It is without doubt the ultimate feel-good Irish show. DON’T

HOTBUCKLE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS PRIDE & PREJUDICE

Thurs 6 June | 8.00pm £15.00 | £13.00 [conc] | R

After last year’s tour of ‘Sense and Sensibility’ Hotbuckle are back with their unique style of adaptation of

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS LEGENDS OF AMERICAN COUNTRY SHOW H

Fri 7 June | 8.00pm | £25.00

Now seen by over 350,000 fans live, multi award-winning show ‘The Legends of American Country’ returns for another fantastic night of toe-tapping Country nostalgia. The 2024 tour will showcase highly acclaimed tributes to Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Don Williams, Patsy Cline, Charley Pride, Tammy Wynette and Kenny Rogers, as well as new tributes to icons Hank

classic novels. The virtuoso company have been entertaining audiences for over twelve years with their inventive interpretations of familiar texts.

In this fast-paced, multi-role-playing adaptation, Hotbuckle invites us to enter the world of The Bennets. From the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet to the proud Mr Darcy, Hotbuckle’s rich characterisations abound in this latest adaptation by skilled writer Adrian Preater.

Williams, Alan Jackson, Glen Campbell, Garth Brooks and Jim Reeves, with countless other well-known singalong hit songs in this must-see musical extravaganza.

The show features three superb singers in the young Kelan Browne, Tracey McAuley and Antony McBrien, who are all accompanied by a superb live band of musicians for that real Tennessee sound coupled with an authentic stage set and state-of-the-art production that is guaranteed to transport you hand-clapping and toe-tapping all the way to Nashville and back in one night. One thing’s for sure, if it’s Country music you like then this is the only show in town!

Over 2,000 5-star reviews!

Full of humour and invention, this is storytelling at its finest, as the five Bennet sisters deal with marriage, morality and misconceptions in unique Hotbuckle style. This is Jane Austen as you’ve never experienced her before, so, Hotbuckle up, for the carriage ride of your life!

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

AS GOOD A COUNTRY SHOW THAT YOU WILL SEE LIVE ANYWHERE OUTSIDE NASHVILLE COUNTRY

SHINE LTD PRESENTS

AL PORTER: NOW

Fri 7 June | 8.00pm | £16.00

As seen on ‘Live at the Apollo’ and ‘Michael McIntyre’s Big Show’. With sold out dates across the country and standing ovations every night in Vicar St Dublin, The Everyman Cork, Belfast Limelight and more, Al Porter’s critically acclaimed new show keeps on touring! After six years, Al Porter returns with his best show yet. It’s personal and hilarious. This is a truly funny, feel-good, must-see show!

A sell-out Edinburgh fringe run got rave reviews! Al brings a unique perspective and big laughs to a story of early success, screwing up and changing for the better to turn your life around.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout. Recommended for age 16+. Contains strong language and adult material.

ESSENTIALLY CHER H

Sat 8 June | 8.00pm | £22.00

Trisha McCluney, star of BBC1’s ‘I Can See Your Voice’, brings the very essence of Cher to any stage that she graces and leaves audiences mind blown with the accuracy that she portrays. From the replica costumes, her witty persona and THAT voice there is no denying that this is one of the most unique tribute shows.

Audiences can expect to be wowed by a cast of talented musicians and singers that make up the Essentially Cher band, performing fully live alongside amazing professional dancers to reflect true authenticity and as close to the real Cher as you can get, and it continues to gain impressive momentum to rave reviews.

Performing hits such as ‘Turn Back Time’, ‘Strong Enough’, ‘Walking in Memphis’, ‘Believe’, ‘I Found Someone’, ‘Just like Jesse James’ and more this show has proven to draw audiences back time and time again. Come and be a part of the Essentially Cher experience!

BIG BANANA FEET

Thurs 13 June 7.00pm | £7.00

Dir: Murray Grigor | 1976

77 Minutes | Certificate 15

SHELLEY LOWRY PRESENTS EIGHTY-NINE AH

Billy Connolly is at the peak of his powers in this newly restored and rediscovered film.

Capturing ‘The Big Yin’ on and off stage during his 1975 tour of Ireland, ‘Big Banana Feet’ is a captivating record of Connolly on the cusp of international stardom. Inspired by the fly-on-the-wall style of DA Pennebaker’s Bob Dylan documentary ‘Don’t Look Back’, director Murray Grigor and cinematographer David Peat present Connolly at his beguiling best, using humour and charm to successfully navigate the political tensions of 1970s Dublin and Belfast. Featuring iconic stand-up material alongside fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses, this previously elusive milestone of British comedy is now newly restored in 2K (from original 16mm materials), reaffirming the genius that has endeared Connolly to generations of fans.

Contains strong language. This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

Thurs 13 - Fri 14 June | 7.30pm £15.00 | £10.00 [conc]

Back by popular demand, ‘EightyNine’ is a musical drama that celebrates the lives of the 89 people who lost their lives in the Armagh rail disaster of 1889.

Featuring modern musical numbers and songs from the day, this well-researched and moving script imagines the stories of the families involved. This is our tribute to the eighty-nine on the 135th anniversary of the disaster.

MOVING ON MUSIC PRESENTS

JAKE BLOUNT BAND

Fri 14 June | 8.00pm | £16.00 | R

Jake Blount is a rising star of American roots music, a talented banjoist and fiddle player and soulful singer. Jake won the 2020 Steve Martin Banjo Prize and was nominated for Artist of the Year at the 2023 International Folk Music Awards. He has also been showcased on NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series and BBC Radio Two’s ‘Folk Show’.

Jake’s work shines a light on the major contributions that Black, Indigenous and LGBTQ artists have made to American folk traditions, often overlooked. Jake has toured widely across the USA and Europe, taking his music and scholarship to venues including Newport Folk Festival, Carnegie Hall and Denmark’s Roskilde Festival.

Jake Blount is a mesmerising live performer, and will be appearing with his trio, featuring double bass ace Nelson Williams and gifted multi-instrumentalist Gus Tritsch. Expect a mix of evocative songs and foot stomping fiddle tunes, with exceptional musicianship and singing.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

ABSURDLY

TALENTED IN ABOUT EVERY WAY A MUSICIAN CAN BE LA TIMES AN UNCOMMON TALENT THE GUARDIAN

STAGE STARS YOUTH THEATRE PRESENTS SHOWTIME! AH

Sat 15 June | 2.30pm & 7.00pm | £13.00

Stage Stars returns to The Market Place Theatre for their 9th annual show with over 120 youth performers ready to wow Armagh audiences.

Enjoy musical numbers from Wicked, Chicago, Aladdin and Annie plus many more!

34TH NI INVITATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL AH

DAVID HULL PROMOTIONS PRESENTS DAVE ELLIOTT’S ROLEPLAY

Fri 21 June | 8.00pm | £16.50

Sun 16 - Sat 22 June | Session & all-day tickets available at the door on the day

Affiliated with the British & International Federation of Festivals.

The Northern Ireland Invitational Dance Festival is an amateur modern dance festival for children and young people from the age of three, who will compete in genres including Tap, Modern Jazz, Classical Ballet, Hip Hop, Acro and many more. Professionally adjudicated by an affiliated federation of festivals adjudicator, this festival has welcomed many dance schools and young dancers from all over Northern Ireland for many years, and this year we are delighted to return to the fantastic professional setting of The Market Place Theatre.

Dave Elliott arrives at The Market Place with his uproarious new stand-up comedy show, ‘Roleplay’. Juggling the roles of dad, husband, comedian, and… housewife… Dave hilariously exposes the trials and tribulations of modern life. Join Dave on a quest for significance as he delivers a scathing and ridiculous take on the roles we play.

As seen on The Blame Game. Host of the ‘Sly Guy’ podcast and regular on the ‘Tea With Me’ and ‘General Banter’ podcasts.

ONE OF THE STAND OUT ACTS ON THE NI COMEDY SCENE

BELFAST TELEGRAPH FANTASTIC!

JOHN BISHOP

NORTHERN IRELAND OPERA PRESENTS SALON AT THE PALACE

Sat 22 June | 8.00pm | £20.00 | £15.00 [conc]

After their hugely successful Salon Series which toured Northern Ireland in 2023/24, join Northern Ireland Opera as they present a brand new Salon event designed for, and performed in, the stunning Bishop’s Palace in Armagh. Experience the very best of salon music in this hour-long, beautifully staged and costumed event.

Takes place in Palace Chamber, Palace Demesne, Armagh. Suitable for age 10+

JMG MUSIC GROUP PRESENTS

IRELAND THE SHOW

Fri 28 June | 8.00pm £26.00 H

‘Ireland The Show’ is back! Featuring an all-star Irish cast of the Emerald Isle’s most talented award-winning performers including Gary Gamble, Ritchie Remo, Elaine Boyle, Keltic Storm and the Gael Force Irish dancers with their high energy jigs and reels!

This unmissable production will take you on a journey through the decades of a globally loved culture and will showcase songs from the legendary Dubliners, Makem and Clancy and The Pogues to name but a few.

If it’s all things Irish you like, then this is certainly the show for you.

SUPERB FROM START TO FINISH… WILL HAVE YOU CLAPPING AND SINGING ALL NIGHT LONG… THIS SHOW IS GOING TO BE A GLOBAL SUCCESS STAGE MAGAZINE

DRAMA FOR KIDS PRESENTS

OLIVER JR AH

Sat 29-Sun 30 June | 6.30pm [Sat] | 2.30pm [Sun] | £12.50

Join us for an enchanting evening as DFK Performing Arts Academy brings to life Oliver Jr. - a captivating musical journey filled with courage, friendship and adventure.

Set in the bustling streets of Victorian London, Oliver Jr. tells the timeless tale of a young orphan boy who dares to dream beyond the orphanage walls. Follow Oliver Twist as he embarks on a remarkable adventure,

encountering colourful characters like the Artful Dodger, Nancy and the infamous Fagin. With unforgettable melodies and captivating choreography, our talented performers aged 3 to 18, will transport you to a world of wonder and excitement. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Oliver Jr.! Book your tickets now for an evening you won’t forget!

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. This production is supported by funding from the ABC Council.

Book by Lionel Bart Music and Lyrics by Lionel Bart

RICHHILL DANCE STUDIO PRESENTS GOTTA DANCE AH

Fri 5 - Sat 6 July | 7.00pm | £17.00 | £13.50 [conc]

Richhill Dance Studio returns to The Market Place Theatre due to popular demand, with their spectacular stage production of ‘Gotta Dance’. This all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza will entertain audiences of all ages and has been a huge sell out in all their previous shows. With adorable performances from children as young as three to the outstanding routines from senior students who will have you thinking you are in the West End! This is a great family event for all to enjoy and something you won’t want to miss!

Group booker discount not available for this performance.

LADY & THE TRAMP

[Dog Friendly Screening]

Sat 6 July | 11.00am

£5.00 [Furry Friends Free]

Dir: Hamilton Luske | 1955

73 Mins | Certificate 12

At The Market Place, we’re as daft about our pets as we are about the shows we host. We’re delighted to introduce occasional dog-friendly film screenings so you can bring your wellbehaved pooch along so they don’t miss the fun.

Experience the thrilling adventures of Lady, a lovingly pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a freewheeling hound with a heart of gold. This heartwarming tale now charms a new generation of families and fans with its exquisite animation, unforgettable songs and one of the greatest love stories of all time.

There is a limited number of dogs that we can facilitate, and we can only permit one dog per adult attending. We will provide bowls of water, blankets to cover seats or for lying on the floor. We request that dogs remain on leads throughout the duration of the film - feel free to bring them outside at any point. Please bring any toys that may make your dog more comfortable, and we kindly ask that owners clean up after their dogs if they create a mess, with the cleaning products provided.

This event will take place in our studio theatre with an unreserved, cabaretstyle seating layout. Please note that the sound levels for the film will be lowered to allow for our canine audience!

CALAMITY JANE

[Dementia Friendly Screening]

Thurs 18 July | 11.00am £4.00 [includes tea/coffee & biscuits]

Dir: David Butler | 1953

97 mins | Certificate U

Deadwood, Dakota Territory, is largely the abode of men, where Calamity Jane is as hard-riding, boastful, and handy with a gun as any. Doris Day plays the famous cowgirl in this musical extravaganza about the legendary female sharpshooter and her up-and-down romance with Wild Bill Hickok.

Our dementia friendly screenings are open to all, but have been tailored with care, attention, and insight to be accessible for people living with dementia. This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE SCREENINGS

Thurs 18 July | 7.30pm | £12.00 | £10.00 [students]

London’s National Theatre makes world-class theatre that is entertaining, challenging and inspiring. And now, they make it for everyone. National Theatre Live is National Theatre’s ground-breaking project to broadcast the best of British theatre to venues in the UK and internationally, and The Market Place Theatre is delighted to be involved. With state-of-theart filming techniques, tailored to each play, you can now attend every performance as it happens, in all its glory. This is theatre for everyone.

Check website for details of screening on this date. This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

COUNTRY SHOWTIME PROMOTIONS PRESENTS

SUSAN MCCANN: STRING OF DIAMONDS CONCERT TOUR H

Thurs 18 July | 8.00pm | £25.00

Ireland’s First Lady Of Country Music, Susan McCann brings her very special ‘String Of Diamonds’ concert tour to The Market Place. It is sure to be a wonderful night of music and entertainment with Susan as she takes a trip down memory lane performing along with her live band.

Susan’s special guest for this tour will be her granddaughter, Sinead, who will be performing some special duets including the hugely popular ‘Grandpa Tell ‘Bout The Good Old Days’. Susan will also be joined by her manager, mentor and husband of over 50 years, Dennis Heaney, on accordion. “Dennis and I are a team. It wouldn’t have worked without him by my side. He is a quiet guy and when I recorded ‘The Wind Beneath my Wings’ I did it for Dennis,” she says.

JUST STAGE IT PRESENTS CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG JR AH

Sat 20 - Sun 21 July | 4.30pm & 7.00pm [Sat], 2.00pm & 4.00pm [Sun] | £15.00 | £12.50 [children]

Eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, sets about restoring an old race car with the help of his children Jeremy and Jemima. They soon discover the car is magic and has the ability to float and take flight. When the evil Baron Bomburst desires the magic car for himself, the family joins forces with Truly Scrumptious and Grandpa Potts to outwit the dastardly Baron and Baroness and their villainous henchman, the Child Catcher. Filled with amazing stage spectacle and unforgettable songs, including the Academy Award nominated title song, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR. is a high-flying fun-filled adventure that will dazzle audiences and Broadway Junior Stars alike.

Licence permitted by Music Theatre International.

JOHN HEWITT SOCIETY PRESENTS

THE JOHN HEWITT INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL 2024 H

FESTIVAL OF CULTURE & CREATIVITY

MON 22 JULY - SAT 27 JULY

With another attractive programme with an international flavour of in-person events, the 37th annual Summer School and literary festival offers readings, talks, workshops, panel discussions and evening shows, featuring well-known writers, esteemed speakers and highly acclaimed performers from throughout Ireland, the UK and beyond. There is something on offer for everyone at JHISS 2024, whether you come for an event or two, a full day or the week.

Acclaimed speakers will address this year’s theme: To Live Among Strangers: Diversity & a Shared Future

IT IS A HARD RESPONSIBILITY

TO BE A STRANGER…

‘THE SEARCH’: JOHN HEWITT, 1966.

Whether fleeing war, famine, prejudice or economic hardship, thousands continually make the attempt to find a new life as migrant, refugee, asylum seeker or ‘illegal’, despite increasingly dangerous means of

travel and frequently hostile receptions, ironically enriching the ‘host’ country’s culture in so many ways as immigrants have done over the centuries.

Well-known prose writers who will read from their recently published work in the ever-popular In Conversation Lunchtime series are Kit de Waal [22 July], Kevin Barry [24 July], Elaine Feeney [25 July] and Nuala O’Connor [26 July] while the Dazzling Debuts slot [26 July] will feature Ferdia Lennon and Aimée Walsh. And some best-selling authors will appear in a Crime Fiction Special hosted by Stuart Neville.

Two of Ireland’s best-known poets, Paula Meehan and Theo Dorgan, will feature in a Gala Poetry Reading [22 July] and among the other prizewinning poets in the JHISS 2024 programme are Dawn Watson, Nithy Kasa, Scott McKendry, Míchéal McCann, Adam Lowe and Susannah Dickey.

The programme also provides Creative Writing workshops with established writers, as well as exhibitions of paintings by Bruno Patron and Ciarán Harper. Further details of all events are on the John Hewitt Society and The Market Place websites and in the JHISS brochure.

GALA POETRY

READING H

Mon 22 July | 7.00pm | £13.00

Paula Meehan is among the best-known and most admired of contemporary Irish poets. Born in 1955 in Dublin where she still lives, she has published seven collections of poems including, most recently, ‘The Solace of Artemis’ as well as ‘As If By Magic: Selected Poems’.

Paula is a member of Aosdána and from 2013 to 2016 she was Ireland Professor of Poetry. Her lectures from this time were published in 2016, titled ‘Imaginary Bonnets with Real Bees in Them’.

FIVE DAYS H

Mon 22 July | 8.30pm | £14.00

Written and Performed by Joe Nawaz

In April 2005, writer Joe Nawaz and his family travelled from Belfast to the wilds of Pakistan on the trail of a mystery, the mystery of how, where and why his father Rab had been murdered there.

Joe shares the difficulties of transporting a body across international lines, the bizarre odyssey that he and his family took in their quest for truth without

Theo Dorgan is one of Ireland’s foremost poets. In ‘Once Was a Boy’, his vivid, unsparing, new collection, he reaches deep into his Cork childhood to examine, among other things, the wellsprings of what would become a life in poetry. His most recent collections of poetry from Dedalus Press are ‘Nine Bright Shiners’ (2014) and ‘Orpheus’ (2018). Awards include the Irish Times Poetry Now Prize, Listowel Prize for Poetry and The O’Shaughnessy Prize for Irish Poetry. He is a member of Aosdána.

PAULA MEEHAN IS THAT RARE AND PRECIOUS THING—A VOCATIONAL POET OF COURAGE AND INTEGRITY.

CAROL ANN DUFFY THEO DORGAN … ONE OF THE GREAT KEEPERS OF THE GRAIL OF IRISH POETRY IN THE CURRENT ERA. BERNAD O’DONOGHUE

even a snippet of Urdu, Pakistani dress sense or cultural smarts! In this fiercely funny and poignant production, Joe interrogates the very blurred lines between facts, personal experience and memory.

‘Five Days’ is a celebration of family and an exploration of identity in a place where identity is still contentious. Joe has written extensively about growing up mixed-race in Northern Ireland in the wake of the centenary of NI and our often political dysfunction. This show offers a unique perspective on partitions of all kinds.

GO SEE JOE NAWAZ’S HARROWING, FUNNY AND DEEPLY MOVING ‘FIVE DAYS’... AS RAW A PIECE OF AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL THEATRE AS

I’VE EVER SEEN. STRANGE, UNSETTLING AND ALWAYS COMPELLING.”

JIMMY FAY, LYRIC THEATRE.

SONGS FROM THE LAST PAGE H

Tues 23 July I 8.30pm I £15.00

Written & Performed by Gareth Williams

‘Songs from the Last Page’ is an evening of songs written and performed by acclaimed songwriter and composer, Gareth Williams, originally from Armagh but now based in Scotland.

Each song takes the last lines of a beloved book and transforms these iconic final pages into brand-new ‘literary chamber pop’ songs. From the melancholy mastermind of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes to the crescendo of Molly Bloom’s soliloquy at the close of Joyce’s Ulysses, this collection of songs finds new musical beginnings where these stories end, inviting the listener to linger a while longer - on the last page.

With the accompaniment of violin, cello and Gareth himself on piano, this constantly evolving song cycle has delivered a magical musical performance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2023 and at various book festivals across Scotland.

WILLIAM’S MUSIC LIFTS WORDS

OFF THE PAGE, TRANSFIGURING THEM WHILE AT THE SAME TIME REFOCUSSING OUR UNDERSTANDING THE SCOTSMAN

CRIME FICTION SPECIAL STUART NEVILLE IN CONVERSATION WITH CHRIS BROOKMYRE & CJ TUDOR H

Wed 24 July 8.30pm | £14.00

THIS SHOW WAS A GEM. FULL MARKS FROM ME.

EDINBURGH MUSIC REVIEW

By now an annual highlight of JHISS, multi award-winning Armagh writer, Stuart Neville, invites two of the most popular and critically acclaimed crime writers to join him for this Crime Fiction Special. For many years, Stuart has hosted this special event in The Market Place Theatre, interviewing critically acclaimed writers including Lee Child, Andrew Child, Val McDermid, Mark Bellingham and Mick Herron and we can look forward seeing and hearing two more bestselling thriller authors on stage this July!

Armagh’s own Stuart Neville, the ‘king of Belfast noir’ (The Guardian), has published ten novels and his next book, ‘Blood Like Mine’, is due out this Summer. He has been shortlisted for various awards, including the CWA Dagger, Theakstons Old Peculiar Novel of the Year, Barry, Macavity and Dilys awards, as well as the Irish Books Awards Crime Novel of the Year.

IN THE WORLD OF MODERN CRIME FICTION, STUART NEVILLE IS A SUPERNOVA.

DENNIS LEHANE

LOCO & RESTLESS PRESENTS THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF KITSY RAINEY H

Thurs 25 July | 8.30pm | £17.50

‘The Mysterious Case of Kitsy Rainey’ is a new one man show written and performed by Mikel Murfi.

Following on from ‘The Man in the Woman’s Shoes’ and ‘I Hear You And Rejoice’, both of which enjoyed critical and popular acclaim in Ireland, London and New York, Mikel Murfi now brings his new show ‘The Mysterious Case of Kitsy Rainey’ to JHISS in Armagh.

Having married Kitsy Rainey late in life, cobbler Pat Farnon finally decides to lift the lid on a life previously lived by his wife. And all the while Pat faces down his own reckoning. Tender, heartfelt and joyously funny ‘The Mysterious Case of Kitsy Rainey’ finishes out Pat Farnon’s journey in a most unexpected way.

BOISTEROUSLY FUNNY… MURFI, THE PLAY’S AUTHOR, DIRECTOR, AND SHAPE-SHIFTING STAR, IS A MARVEL OF CHARACTERIZATION AND VOCALIZATION

THE NEW YORK TIMES

BECOMING MARVELLOUS H

Fri 26 July | 7.00pm | £14.00

Written and performed by Cathy Carson.

Returning to Armagh in response to popular demand, ‘Becoming Marvellous’ is one of the most talkedabout shows of recent Summer School programmes!

Danielle’s story is one of tears and laughter, of golden moments in a day-long struggle, of rolling with the punches and coming through a winner. The story

begins in Belfast in the 1970’s, where life at home is as dangerous for young Danielle as it is on the streets. She feels like she is drowning, but there are lifeboats around her, people who will save her. If only she could trust them enough to take their hands.

Cathy Carson is a writer and spoken word artist who combines poetry and storytelling and is known for her powerful, emotive, engaging and deeply affecting performances. Her work focuses on the human connection and condition. She has written and performed for festivals, theatre, television and radio podcasts. In 2022 she was shortlisted for the Saboteur award for Best Spoken Word Performer.

BRIEGE MURPHY PRESENTS SOUTH ARMAGH FOLK & TRAD TRIO

Sat 27 July | 8.00pm | £13.50

Singer-songwriter Briege Murphy is a native of The Ring of Gullion Valley, - an area rich in songs and storytelling. Her songs are often inspired by the surroundings of the beautiful hill country in which she was reared and still lives. Her songs ‘The Hills Of South Armagh’ and ‘Cloghinne Winds’ amongst others, have been recorded by many artists across the globe. Briege has been described as ‘an Irish Nanci Griffiths’ by Living Tradition magazine.

Joanna Doran is a passionate, versatile musician, a respected and highly regarded violin | fiddle soloist and piano accompanist. She is a seasoned session musician, regularly performing on stage, or in the recording studio, across a variety of music genres. She

has been immersed in folk and traditional music since childhood, achieving various awards, and been particularly successful in classical achievement on solo violin.

Martha Guiney was brought up in the hallowed company of Irish folk and traditional music, beginning her education in music as a child, when her natural ability as a whistle or flute player was recognised. Martha has performed all over the world, delighting audiences with her unique style of playing and she was recently awarded the accolade of ‘Young BBC Musician of the Year’.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout. Note this performance will contain adult themes and is recommended for age 14+.

FILM SCREENING

THE BLUES BROTHERS

Fri 2 Aug | 7.00pm | £7.00

Dir: John Landis | 1980 142 Mins | Certificate 15

Comedy legends John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd star in this classic musical comedy about Jake and Elwood Blues, two brothers searching for redemption with no money but a briefcase full of soul. When they discover that the orphanage where they were raised will be closed down unless the tax on the property can be paid in 11 days, they decide to raise money by putting their band back together to stage a big gig.

Contains strong language. This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

INSPIRE ME ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS SUPERHERO TRAINING CAMP

Sat 3 Aug | 2.00pm & 4.00pm £12.00 | £40.00 [family of 4]

Do YOU have what it takes?

Strict instructions have been left to train up the next generation of Superheroes and, of course, why not learn from THE BEST?

Join our ‘Cosmic Captain’ and learn what it really takes to become a protector of the universe. Word on the street is that she may even bring along a few of her most skilled and fearless colleagues to help teach you all a thing or two.

COME ON DOWN and have fun with Earth’s Strongest Heroes!

Be sure to bring along your biggest muscles AND your best dance moves... And if you really want to get fully in the mood, why not don your favourite dress-up! Suitable for age 5+.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, tiered seating layout.

BELVOIR PLAYERS PRESENTS DEATH BY DESIGN

BY ROB URBINATI

Sat 3 Aug | 8.00pm | £15.00 £12.00 [conc] AH

What happens when you mix the brilliant wit of Noël Coward with the intricate plotting of Agatha Christie?

Set during a weekend in an English country manor in 1932, ‘Death by Design’ is a delightful and mysterious ‘mash-up’ of two of the greatest English writers of all time.

Edward Bennett, a playwright, and his wife, Sorel Bennett, an actress, flee London and head to Cookham after a disastrous opening night. But various guests arrive unexpectedly - a conservative politician, a fiery socialist, a nearsighted ingénue, a zany modern dancer - each with a long-held secret. When one of the guests is murdered, it’s left to Bridgit, the feisty Irish maid with a macabre interest in homicide, to solve the crime. ‘Death by Design’ is more than homage - it’s a new classic.

This amateur production of ‘Death by Design’ is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. On behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www. concordtheatricals.co.uk

THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS

[Dog Friendly Screening]

Sat 10 Aug | 11.00am | £5.00 [Furry Friends Free]

Dir: Chris Renaud | 2016 83 mins | Certificate U

From the creators of the blockbuster Despicable Me franchise comes the animated feature film that finally answers the question: what do your pets do when you’re not home? When their owners leave for the day, pets from the building gossip with their friends, satisfy their sweet tooths, and throw outrageous parties. But when a pampered terrier and his unruly new “roommate” from the pound get lost in the urban jungle of New York City, they must put aside their differences to survive the epic journey back home.

There is a limited number of dogs that we can facilitate, and we can only permit one dog per adult attending. We will provide bowls of water, blankets to cover seats or for lying on the floor. We request that dogs remain on leads throughout the duration of the film - feel free to bring them outside at any point. Please bring any toys that may make your dog more comfortable, and we kindly ask that owners clean up after their dogs if they create a mess, with the cleaning products provided.

This event will take place in our studio theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout. Please note that the sound levels for the film will be lowered to allow for our canine audience!

DESPERATELY FUNNY

THE NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

FIZZES WITH COMIC ENERGY

THE BELFAST NEWS LETTER

PATRICK TALBOT PRODUCTIONS & RATHMORE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS FLY ME TO THE MOON

Sat 10 Aug | 8.00pm | £22.50

Written by the Olivier Award winning author of ‘Stones In His Pockets’ Marie Jones and starring Katie Tumelty and Maria Connolly.

Francis and Loretta are community care visitors. Davey, one of their elderly charges, has had a significant win on the horses, but he doesn’t know. When the cash-strapped women learn that Davey will not be around for a considerable time they are faced with a mouth-watering dilemma.

Marie Jones is the author of some of the most successful plays ever produced including ‘Stones In His Pockets’, ‘Women On The Verge Of HRT’ and ‘A Night In November’. This hilarious comedy investigates whether we are valued more in life or in death.

NEWRY YOUTH PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS WEST SIDE STORY AH

Thurs 15 - Sat 17 Aug | 7.30pm 2.00pm [Sat only] | £16.00

Inspired by the timeless story of Romeo and Juliet, ‘West Side Story’ takes Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, and places them in the vibrant battleground of New York City’s West Side in the 1950s.

In the midst of the deep-seated rivalry between the Puerto Rican gang, the Sharks, and the white gang, the Jets, Maria and Tony discover that ancient grudges are no match for true love. Their warring factions, however, refuse to back down, and the “rumbles”, romance and resentment lead the bloody path to the lovers’ ultimate, tragic conclusion. With soaring, sophisticated and diverse melodies, energetic and athletic dance battles, and its remarkably salient social message, ‘West Side Story’ remains one of musical theatre’s most revolutionary and most loved treasures.

LITTLE STARZ ACADEMY PRESENTS MUSIC IN ME AH

Fri 23 Aug | 7.30pm | £18.50

Little Starz Academy of Performing Arts has been in business for fourteen years.

Their first big stage show was at The Market Place twelve years ago, and they return now for a big reunion show featuring past and present pupils of the Academy.

The show will showcase all we offer at LSA. A jam-packed variety show of dance, drama and song!

Suitable for all the family to enjoy.

TCB PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

THE ELVIS SPECTACULAR

Sat 24 Aug | 8.00pm | £22.00

The Elvis Spectacular Show is Ireland’s longest running and most successful Elvis production, celebrating 27 years on the road in 2024!

The show stars the European Elvis Champion Ciarán Houlihan, who also holds many other awards including The Best 70s Elvis, The Best Gospel Elvis and winner of Elvis 4 Nations.

Ciarán is backed by a brilliant 8-piece live band and dresses in authentic costumes created by Elvis’s very own designer Gene Douchette. All this helps to create the feel of a genuine live Elvis show. This show has been called ‘The Greatest Elvis Show since 1977!’

With amazing staging, sound and a fully stocked Elvis merchandise stand, you are assured of a great night packed with many of the king’s mega hits.

This is a show for all ages and is popular all over the country so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment as it always sells out!

SHINE LTD PRESENTS PADDY RAFF: GIMME A MINUTE! H

Sat 31 Aug | 8.00pm | £17.00

Award-winning Northern Irish comedy sensation Paddy Raff is back on tour taking his brand new hilarious stand-up show ‘Gimme a Minute!’ on the road in 2024. Having previously sold-out venues across UK and Ireland, including a record six nights in Belfast’s SSE Arena, Paddy’s new show, featuring his own blend of storytelling, observational and musical comedy, is one not to be missed.

Recommended for age 16+. Contains strong language and adult material.

ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL STUFF

BBC RADIO 2 PRESENTER, CERYS MATTHEWS

SD ENTERTAINMENT LTD PRESENTS DOM MARTIN SOLO ACOUSTIC H

Sat 31 Aug | 8.00pm | £20.00

Dom Martin is a Belfast-born multi awardwinning artist who burst onto the music scene in 2019 with a unique guitar style and voice, captivating audiences everywhere.

He has made a meteoric rise with his jaw dropping, entirely natural sounding and unforced/unschooled skill on acoustic

IT’S OBVIOUS THAT DOM MARTIN IS THE NEXT RISING STAR IN THE GLOBAL ROOTS SCENE. JUMP ABOARD NOW BEFORE HE PASSES YOU BY.

ROCK & BLUES MUSE

guitar, matched with an authentic ‘Belfast Blues’ voice, bringing to mind comparisons with many from John Martyn to Rory Gallagher, with nods to many in-between, not least perhaps the likes of Van Morrison and Foy Vance.

Dom has won multiple awards for his acoustic work with a 2019 European award, UK awards in 2020/2021/2022 and as a result is now an inductee in the UK Blues Hall of Fame.

This event takes place in our Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret style seating layout.

Fri 6 Sept | 8.00pm | £15.00

Stephen Large, the man behind social media sensation, the Dundonald Liberation Army, brings his first-ever solo stand-up comedy show ‘Sabotage’ to the Market Place Theatre.

After writing a Kindle chart-topping book, BBC comedy sketches amassing hundreds of millions of views online, and five sold-out stage comedies, Large burst onto the local stand-up scene two years ago. Having performed at the likes of Belfast’s prestigious Empire Comedy Club and Manchester’s notorious Frog and Bucket Club, the Dundonald native is bringing his full-length standup show to the Market Place Theatre.

Recommended for age 16+. Contains strong language and adult material.

CHEESY GRIN PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS SEX IN THE CITY HALL

Wed 18 Sept | 8.00pm | £25.00

Callie, Lottie, Maddy and Sammy are four best friends who work together in City Hall. Well for now, because apparently one of them is getting fired in the morning.

But which one? Join the girls as they barricade themselves in

City Hall overnight and say ’no surrender’ to the powers that be. These women won’t go down without a fight. It’s all for one, and one for all. From the writer of smash hit shows ‘Bridesmaids Of Northern Ireland’ and ‘The Hen Do’, Diona Doherty and Sean Hegarty bring you this laughout-loud, high-energy comedy because sometimes… girls just wanna have fun.

Please note this performance will contain strong language. Recommended for age 16+.

SD ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS THE PRIESTS -

TIME TO SAY GOODBYE H

Fri 8 Nov | 8.00pm | £28.00

2024 is a special anniversary year for The Priests. Having performed their first musical collaboration in 1974 as schoolboys, they celebrate 50 years of an enduring musical association that has lasted throughout the intervening years to today.

Fathers Eugene and Martin O’Hagan and David Delargy became known as The Priests when in April 2008 they signed a recording contract in front of Westminster Cathedral.

Their first concert as a signed group was in Armagh in the Cathedral. It seems appropriate to return to the town to celebrate this particular jubilee.

Their debut album was released in 40+ countries and earned them a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the fastest selling debut for a classical act, as well as gold and platinum discs for sales throughout Europe and Australia in addition to topping the classical Billboard chart in the US. They have performed for Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis, as well as for the late Queen Elizabeth II and then Prince Charles and Camilla.

The Priests will be performing sacred and secular songs from ‘Ave Maria’ and ‘Amazing Grace’ to ‘You Raise Me Up’ and ‘Danny Boy’.

THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH LANA PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

A TANGLED TALE

Written by Ciaran Haggerty

30 NOV22 DEC

Get ready for a hair-raising adventure this Christmas at The Market Place Theatre with the spectacular pantomime extravaganza, Rapunzel. Let your imagination run wild as we unravel the story of Rapunzel, the lonely princess with golden hair who is trapped in a tower and longing for a life of adventure in the outside world. With the help of some ‘a-moo-zing’ animal friends and Dame Pam Loaf, will Rapunzel be able to escape the tower she has been locked in since birth by the evil witch and be reunited with her family?

Brought to you by a superb cast of colourful characters, Rapunzel promises a whirlwind of dazzling costumes, laughout-loud comedy, captivating musical numbers and plenty of audience participation in a pantomime that is sure to be a cut above the rest. So let your hair down and join us for an unforgettably festive experience coupled with The Market Place Theatre’s renowned reputation for high quality, professional pantomimes that are up there with the best!

PREVIEW OFFER

SAT 30 NOV | 11AM & 3PM

OFFER £16.00 | £14.00 [CONC]

TICKETS FOR ALL OTHER PUBLIC PERFORMANCES £18.50 & £16.00 [CONC]

SCHOOLS PERFORMANCES & PRICES: Contact The Box Office 03300 561 025

PUBLIC PERFORMANCES Sat 30 Nov 11am & 3pm | Fri 6 Dec 6.30pm | Sat 7 Dec 11am, 3pm & 6.30pm

Sun 8 Dec 1pm & 4.30pm | Fri 13 Dec 6.30pm | Sat 14 Dec 1pm & 5pm | Sun 15 Dec 1pm & 4.30pm | Mon 16 Dec 6.30pm

Tues 17 Dec 6.30pm | Thurs 19 Dec 6.30pm | Fri 20 Dec 3pm & 6.30pm | Sat 21 Dec 11am & 3pm | Sun 22 Dec 11am & 3pm

RELAXED PERFORMANCE Sat 7 Dec 11am BSL SIGNED PERFORMANCE Sat 14 Dec 5pm

CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE Thurs 19 Dec 6.30pm

WORKSHOPS

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR ADULT AND CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS

Enrolment closes seven days prior to workshop date. Summer season adult workshops are suitable for ages 16+. Workshops are designed for people coming to a subject for the first time or for those with a casual or leisure interest. Workshops are suitable for wheelchair users.

There are no catering services available at The Market Place Theatre. Participants should bring their own lunch or avail of the many cafés, restaurants and shops close to the venue. Tea and coffee will be provided in the workshop room free of charge throughout the workshop. Children attending workshops should bring a drink and small snack.

CHINESE BRUSHWORK & CALLIGRAPHY

Sat 1 June | 10.00am - 3.00pm | £35.00

Dating back many thousands of years, Chinese calligraphy and brush painting is one of the oldest continuous artistic traditions in the world. Chinese painters use a traditional brush dipped into black ink, or colour on special paper or silk. Subjects include flowers, plants, birds, animals, mountains, and rivers. The painter aims to capture the life and spirit of the subject, making it live through the brush of the painter and the eyes of the viewer. In this relaxing introductory workshop, we will explore Chinese culture through calligraphy and brush painting to complete a range of test works leading up to a finished piece including an image and calligraphy.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Gwen Stevenson

A MORNING OF EXPERIMENTAL DRAWING WITH SUZANNE CARROLL

Sat 1 June | 10.00am - 12.00pm | £15.00

The artist Paul Klee said, “A drawing is simply a line going for a walk”.

This workshop is suitable for anyone who wants to loosen up their approach to drawing and mark making. The workshop will centre around a collection of 3D objects. Over the course of the morning, we will discuss the importance of observing negative space while participants try their hand at continuous line drawing and blind drawing using charcoal and chalk pastels. The aim of the morning is to introduce participants to techniques that will help to improve their observational and drawing skills.

This class is suitable for beginners and improvers, no previous drawing experience is necessary. Just bring an apron and your willingness to have a go.

All materials will be provided.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Suzanne Carroll

DESIGN YOUR OWN STERLING SILVER NECKLACE OR EARRINGS

Sat 8 June | 10.00am - 4.00pm | £50.00

This silver smithing workshop will provide the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a bespoke piece of jewellery or make a special gift for a loved one. Under the guidance of goldsmith Diane Lyness, you will design and make a unique silver necklace or set of earrings using traditional jewellery making techniques. You will be taught piercing, soldering, shaping, texturing and polishing to create a beautiful piece of jewellery to take home. No previous experience is required. All you need to bring is an apron and bundles of enthusiasm!

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Diane Lyness [Goldsmith]

FUSED GLASS WORKSHOPSEASCAPE COASTERS

Sat 8 June | 10.00am - 2.00pm | £50.00

Unleash your creativity this summer and try something new at this gentle introduction to glass fusing specifically designed for complete beginners. You will make four glass coasters / tile sized projects 10cm square with a seascape design using copper oxide. A number of designs will be readily available - starfish, shrimp, coral, seahorse, clam, dolphin, turtle, fish, etc. However, if you wish, you can make up your own simple design at the workshop. Tutor Keith Sheppard will teach you various design techniques, demonstrate the tools required for glass cutting, how to work safely and handle glass with confidence.

Your completed fused glass coasters will be taken back to Keith’s studio for firing and returned to the venue one to two weeks later for collection.

All tools and materials will be provided. You may wish to bring your own safety glasses. Please wear suitable clothing and flat shoes.

PLEASE NOTE: Completed glass decorations will not be returned by post. Collection only from the venue.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Keith Sheppard [Glass Artistry]

WHAT DO I KNOW? WRITING A MEMOIR

Sat 15 June | 10.00am - 4.00pm | £30.00

Do you want to write your own story? Whether it’s a one-off event that had a big impact, or your whole life to let a different world know how things wereyou have the tools already. You can tell a yarn. You have your point of view and your own way of doing things. You’ve lived it. And you’ve changed. All you need now is pen and paper. This workshop will guide you in immersing yourself in memory and polishing your technique, but above all it will inspire you to give yourself permission to write. What are you waiting for?

Mary Montague is a poet and writer. She has authored two highly praised collections of poetry and her work has been published in numerous journals and anthologies (notably, Queering the Green, Lifeboat Press 2021; and The Book of Life, Dedalus Press, 2022). Her poetry has been translated into French, Italian, Russian and German. She is the recipient of several awards from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Mary Montague

THAI COOKING SUMMER SPICE

Sat 15 June | 10.00am - 12.00pm OR 1.00pm - 3.00pm | £25.00

Learn to make spicy summer Thai dishes such as sum tam, spring rolls and more in this popular class with chef Chanida that explores the flavours of Thailand. Thai Food NI will be sharing some of their favourite Thai recipes that come together to make an exciting feast to share with friends. Throughout the workshop you will use authentic recipes to create your dishes. So, get ready for big flavours and lots of fun.

This class is designed for people of all experience levels, from total beginners to seasoned cooks looking to broaden their horizons. During the workshop you will taste and eat the food that you have made as part of the experience. All ingredients are supplied however participants should bring an apron and take-home food containers.

Peanuts will be used in this cooking class. Please notify the tutor of any allergies prior to the course. Inform Box Office at the time of booking to receive the tutor’s email address.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutors: Thai Arts NI

AQUA ARTISTRY

Sat 15 June | 10.00am - 12.00pm | £25.00

Join artist Praveen Karebasannanavar for a two-hour session where you'll dive into the world of watercolour painting. Praveen will provide step-bystep guidance as you create a stunning landscape masterpiece. Learn the fundamentals of watercolour techniques, including colour mixing, brush strokes and balancing, to bring your artwork to life. Praveen will reveal captivating outdoor vistas that will bring vitality and energy to your completed work. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced painter, this class offers a creative and enjoyable experience for all.

All materials including watercolour paints, paper, brushes and masking tape will be provided. Participants should bring along some landscape images for inspiration. Don't forget to bring an apron to protect your clothing!

Max No: 12 | Suitable for age 16+ | Tutor: Praveen Karebasannanavar

TRADITIONAL WILLOW WEAVING SUMMER SCHOOL

OVAL SHAPED SHOPPING BASKET WITH WRAPPED HANDLE

SOAP MAKING WITH ‘NATURALLY SOAP’

Sat 29 June | 10.00am - 12.30pm or 2.00pm - 4.30pm | £25.00

If you are interested in making your own handmade soap using only natural ingredients with natural fragrances then this hands-on workshop is for you. Tutors, Pamela Mawhinney and Irene Gourley from local business Naturally Soap, will teach you the ancient craft of soap making using the traditional cold process method. The basic skills taught in this workshop will enable you to go home and make your own soap with ease. All materials will be provided, however attendees must bring their own apron, a small towel and wear long sleeves and full shoes.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 18+ | Tutors: Pamela Mawhinney & Irene Gourley [Naturally Soap]

Fri 5 & Sat 6 July | 10.00am - 4.30pm | £85.00

On this two-day workshop you will learn to make a traditional willow shopper with an oval split base using various techniques such as pairing, three and four rod waling, English or French randing, four pair border and a wrapped handle bow.

Basketmaking is a very physical activity and therefore requires reasonable stamina which allows for standing up for an extended period, bending down, applying pressure with fingers and hands. You will also have the use of very sharp tools throughout the day's work.

Please note: Previous basketmaking experience highly recommended. This workshop is not suitable for beginners.

Max No: 6 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Sabine Wolnizcak [Beaghmore Baskets]

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS

AT THE JOHN HEWITT INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL 2024

MON 22, TUES 23 & THURS 25 JULY

2.45pm - 4.45pm | £70 for three-day workshop course

Develop your writing skills under the direction of esteemed facilitators who are all experienced tutors and published authors. With a choice of genres to choose from, each workshop runs over three days, and each intensive interactive session lasts for two hours. Spaces are limited - advance booking is essential.

There will be workshops on Poetry, Short Story Writing, Memoir, scriptwriting, and aspects of Novel Writing. Maureen Boyle will return to lead the workshops on Memoir, while Bernie McGill, recent winner of the Edgehill Short Story Prize will facilitate the short story workshops and Dublin-based playwright, Gavin Costick, will take on Writing for Stage.

Full details on all seven workshop courses and facilitators will be available on the John Hewitt Society and Market Place Theatre websites and in the JHISS 2024 brochure.

*Supported by The Open University

GLAZED CERAMIC PLAQUES

Sat 3 Aug | 10.00am - 4.00pm | £60.00

Roll up your sleeves and join Peter Surginor in an immersive workshop experience! Dive into the world of ceramics as he guides you through low relief carving techniques, crafting your own ceramic plaque with glass inlays. Unleash your creativity and learn invaluable new skills in this hands-on ceramic adventure.

Peter will take away your works of art on the day, dip glaze and fire them. Your plaques will be available to pick up from the venue the following week.

Max No: 10 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Peter Surginor

ART CAMP FOR KIDS

Mon 5 - Fri 9 Aug | 10.00am - 1.00pm [Early drop off from 9.30am available]

£65.00 for the full week | Siblings: £55.00 each for second or third child

After last summer ’s successful program, Art Camp is back for another year. New artists, new techniques, new materials and new ideas but just as much fun! You will be introduced to a mix of famous artists from history and some new modern masters during the week to inspire your artwork. We will explore and experiment with a variety of different art forms.

There will be some painting, sculpting and action painting and some time left every day for you to unleash your own creativity. Let’s not forget about all the new friendships that will be made throughout the week too! The camp ends with an exhibition showcasing all the artwork made during the week. It will be messy, colourful and pressure free. Creativity at its best! Children should bring a snack and drink for break during this 3 hour session.

Max No: 15 | Suitable for 7-13 years | Tutor: Lina Morgan and Art Team

HANGING GLASS LANDSCAPES

Sat 10 Aug | 10:00am - 1.00pm | £50.00

Create your own hanging glass landscape under the guidance of fused glass artist Sarah Walsh. In this beginner’s class you will learn the basics of creating a glass panel, including glass cutting and using colourful frits. Each participant will make a 20cm x 10cm piece with hooks, which will then be fired and strung to create a colourful and unique artwork.

Sarah will demonstrate the tools used for glass cutting and how to work safely and confidently with glass. Each participant will create their own unique landscape and you may wish to bring some images for inspiration. All tools and safety equipment will be provided. Please wear suitable clothing and flat, closed-toe shoes. Finished works will be taken back to Sarah’s studio for firing before being returned to the venue for collection.

Please note: Glass works cannot be returned by post - collection only.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for age 16+ | Tutor: Sarah Walsh

INTERNATIONAL DJ ACADEMY TRAINING TWO DAY COURSE

Thurs 15 & Fri 16 Aug 10.00am - 4.00pm each day | £50.00

Dreaming of being the next top DJ? Well, this dynamic introduction to DJ’ing could help you on your way. Over the course of two days, you will be provided with state-of-the-art DJ equipment and assisted by some of the UK and Ireland’s leading DJ’s and producers. You will be guided through everything you need to know on becoming a DJ.

Topics covered on the course include music selection [all music genres covered], health and safety, setting up equipment, beats, bars, rhythms and phrasing, beat matching and mixing, EFX tricks and scratching, structuring a mix and final mix recording.

Students can bring in their own music on CD or hard drive or can search through the extensive music bank supplied by the course tutor. On course completion, a Mix CD of the students work [recorded and mastered by the course tutor] will be provided to each student to take away with them. No musical ability is required and no previous experience necessary. All you need is an interest in music.

Minors aged 12 -16 years: Please provide age upon booking.

Max No: 16 | Suitable for age 12+ - adult Tutor: Gleave Dobbin [International DJ Academy]

WOODTURNING [2 DAY BEGINNERS & IMPROVERS COURSE]

Thurs 15 & Fri 16 Aug | 10.00am - 4.00pm | £90.00

This course, with experienced tutor Jim Kelly, is suitable for beginners who wish to expand their skills as an improver on day two of the course. During the two days, the emphasis will be on accuracy and fitting together of components. Two to three projects will be completed starting with a basic introduction and moving to more intricate work on day two. Each participant will have the use of a lathe and safety equipment will be provided. Tools will be available, but participants are encouraged to bring their own tools. A ProEdge sharpening system will be available throughout the two days.

All materials, finishes and a bench grinder will be provided, however, participants should bring an overall/apron/old shirt to protect their clothes. This workshop can host one wheelchair user or those who need to be seated. PLEASE INFORM THE BOX OFFICE AT THE TIME OF BOOKING IF YOU REQUIRE THIS FACILITY.

Max No: 6 | Suitable for 18+

Tutor: Jim Kelly [Irish Wood Turners Guild - Ulster Chapter]

SUMMER FELTED LANDSCAPE

Sat 17 Aug | 10.00am - 4.00pm | £35.00

Learn to create a beautiful needle felted summer seascape or landscape under the guidance of textile artist Louisa Kelly. Working from a range of images or your own inspiration and observation, Louisa will teach you both wet felting and needle felting techniques to create your picture. Learn how to build up your textures and explore carding techniques, nuno techniques and how to manipulate a variety of wools.

All materials will be provided, but please feel free to bring images of your own to work from.

Max No: 12 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Louisa Kelly

WOVEN WILLOW OVAL PLATTER

Sat 17 Aug | 10:00am - 2:00pm | £50.00

Join willow artist, Jeanette Keenan, for this wonderful summer project to create your very own handwoven platter basket.

This multi-purpose handmade basket, made with willow grown in County Armagh, can be used to store and display your fruit or even be used to serve up your fresh cut bread on those lovely al fresco summer evenings.

This workshop is suitable for people with no experience right up to those master weavers.

All materials and tools will be supplied.

Max No: 10 | Suitable 16+ | Tutor: Jeanette Keenan

CARRICKMACROSS LACE SUMMER SCHOOL 3-DIMENSIONAL SNOWDROP

Wed 21 - Fri 23 August | 10.00am to 3.00pm | £80.00

Award-winning designer and lace maker Theresa Kelly is delighted to present this new lace workshop based around the pretty snowdrop. During this threeday workshop you will be covering most of the traditional Carrickmacross Lace techniques of couching, guipure, loops etc. Theresa will guide you through the making of this original flower design. Suitable for beginner and intermediate lace makers.

All materials are provided, however attendees are encouraged to bring a small lamp to shine on their work for increased visibility.

Max: 12 | Suitable for 18+ | Tutor: Theresa Kelly

FUSED GLASS SUMMER LANDSCAPE

Fri 23 Aug | 10.00am - 3.00pm | £60.00

Join expert glass artist Keith Sheppard for this colourful fused glass workshop to create a beautiful 24cm x 20cm freestanding curved glass landscape or two flat 24cm x 10cm glass landscapes. The freestanding piece will look stunning set close to a window or in the evenings will glow beautifully with a small candle set behind it. The two flat glass landscapes can be set in one or two mounted box frames and hung as a decorative artwork on the wall. Working

with different coloured glass, Keith will teach you various design techniques, demonstrate the tools required for glass cutting and how to work safely and handle glass with confidence. Your completed fused glass landscapes will be taken back to Keith’s studio for firing and returned to the venue one to two weeks later for collection.

All tools and materials will be provided. You may wish to bring your own safety glasses. Please wear suitable clothing and flat shoes.

PLEASE NOTE: Completed glass decorations will not be returned by post. Collection only from the venue.

Max No: 8 | Suitable for 16+ | Tutor: Keith Sheppard [Glass Artistry]

GIFT VOUCHERS

THE MARKET PLACE THEATRE ARMAGH

A Market Place Theatre Gift voucher makes an ideal present for a loved one, friend or colleague and is ideal for any occasion including that elusive Anniversary or Birthday present.

Gift Vouchers are available in any denomination and can be purchased from The Theatre Box Office or through the website.

PROTECT YOUR TICKETS

Nothing is more disappointing than not being able to attend an event you’ve been looking forward to. When you purchase refund protection, at least you won’t be We’ve partnered with Booking Protect to offer customers the world’s most flexible and comprehensive refund protection cover. Simply select additional refund protection at the checkout or when booking through our Box Office, and you’ll have peace of mind that you can request a full refund if certain unexpected circumstances occur and you have to miss an event. We hope this option will give you even more flexibility and security when purchasing tickets with us!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

BOOK IN PERSON

Box Office Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4.30pm. On performance evenings the Box Office will remain open until 7.00pm for all bookings and until the performance start-time for tickets for that night’s show only.

BOOK ONLINE | FURTHER INFORMATION

Full customer information and ticket booking available at visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre

BOOK BY TELEPHONE

Mon to Sat from 9.30am to 4.30pm. On performance evenings we take telephone bookings until 7.00pm. The easiest way to pay is by credit or debit card.

BOOKING FEE

Please note there is a £1 per ticket booking fee for tickets purchased online or by phone.

TICKETS CANNOT BE EXCHANGED OR REFUNDED

Once purchased, your ticket is your property. The Market Place Theatre cannot refund its value to you, nor exchange it for any other ticket under any circumstances. If you cannot attend the performance for any reason, you have the option of selling or giving your ticket to another person.

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE

Customers using wheelchairs or those who require special assistance attending an event should contact the Box Office in advance so that appropriate assistance can be arranged.

The H symbol beside some of our events indicates that the performance is being presented by an independent promoter | organisation which is hiring the theatre.

The A symbol indicates that the performance is being presented by an amateur theatre group or organisation.

The R symbol indicates that a number of seats will be available at £5.00 for people totally dependent on state benefit.

SHED BRIDGE STREET STUDIOS

Fri 17 May - Sat 6 July | Gallery

Dundalk’s Bridge Street Studios, one of the oldest and largest independent artistic collectives in Ireland, presents their latest visual art exhibition, 'Shed.'

The 'Shed' exhibition features the works of nine dynamic professional artists and craftspeople including Orlaith Cullinane, Rachel Tinniswood, Mary Cowan, Cathy McKeown, Suzanne Carroll, Caoilfionn Murphy O'Hanlon, Orla Barry, Sarah McKenna, and Fiona Quigley.

Their collective expertise spans a wide array of media, including paintings, sculpture, prints, ceramics, textiles, and mixed media. The artists have explored the theme of "shed" with rich imagery, allusion, and symbolism, crafting responses and connections on personal, local, and universal levels. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the theme, creating a diverse and thought-provoking exhibition.

IMPRESSIONS OF SUMMER: A COLOURFUL & DRAMATIC RESPONSE ARMAGH ART CLUB

Fri 31 May - Sat 6 July | Foyer Walls

Armagh Art Club is a thriving cross community club boasting over 60 years of heritage. Artists of all abilities come together in a welcoming environment at the Harps Club to create and learn. Guided by professional and experienced tutors, our members receive insightful demonstrations, nurturing talent across all levels.

Member artists partake in exhibitions held at prestigious venues like the Armagh County Museum and The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre and regularly enjoy art trips for inspiration. New members are always welcome. Don’t miss this chance to support local artists and be captivated by the talent on display.

RE-IMAGINING DIASPORA CIARAN HARPER

Mon 22 July - Sat 7 Sep | Foyer Walls

Embark on a journey of Black experiences through figurative paintings and imaginary scenes, inspired by Harper's mixed Jamaican and Irish roots.

Exploring themes of identity, race, and representation, the artworks explore the cultural richness and heritage of the Black community, sparking reflection and dialogue.

Utilizing a rich palette of colours, dynamic compositions, and tactile textures, Harper's work invites viewers to delve deeper into the emotional and symbolic layers of each piece. Harper reimagines historical, contemporary and fictional figures, offering diverse narratives and perspectives while highlighting the complexities of diasporic identity and belonging.

THE PEACE WALL BRUNO PATRON

Mon 22 July - Sat 7 Sep | Gallery

The Troubles over, the guns and bombs silent, and Northern Ireland’s iconic Peace Wall, Cupar Way remains in place. It is a wall that bears the pen marks of thousands of messages from tourists and visitors. It is a wall separating two communities, but a wall emblazoned with stunning graffiti, exquisite murals, and amazing street art.

See for yourself the thirty-foot painting that accurately depicts the artistic beauty and dramatic austerity of a construction so embedded in Northern Irish history. A selection of paintings themed around the Peace Wall’s creation in September 1969 accompanies the main exhibited work.

MARKET PLACE THEATRE BEAT THE QUEUE

PRE-ORDER YOUR INTERVAL DRINKS

You can pre-order your interval drinks at any of our bars before the performance to avoid queuing at the interval. Our bars serve a wide range of beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks.